Looking for some help

[DoubleD]

I agree with Jig, but to be a little more specific, a mapping GPS is the only way to go. One where you can put a navionics chip in so everything on Erie is right in front of you on the map. Then, everytime you catch a fish, mark the spot and it is a piece of cake to find and hit the same spots over again. I bought a humminbird a couple years ago with the chip it was about $900. They are probably cheaper now but you could spend several thousands if you want. This is a must have for Erie.

[Root beer float]

Yes, I agree, a GPS with the mapping chip is awesome. Last year was the first year that I had it, and what a difference. We used it last week to make drifts over Niagra Reef. You could really get a good drift line over the edges, and when we caught two on the first drift, we could go back to the exact spot that we started and do it again. I'm much more aware now of a few shallow spots that could really cause some damage to the boat if the water levels ever drop. The first time I ever saw one of these in action was on a charter and a heavy fog settled in while we were out. You couldn't see 10 feet away, but with the GPS mapping chart we got right back. I spent about $800 and I'm glad I did.

[eyeassassin]

i have a real nice hand held gps which i have used in the central erie on my grandfathers boat. so should i invest the money in a combo. that might be tough to convice the old lady to let me get that one after getting the boat

[jiginitis69]

Sell her on the safety features. I personally would go with the combo. It's awesome. I do figure 8's trolling off the marks and its way too much fun arguing with my buddies as to where we actually caught them. Plus it's easier on you operating the boat. Price wise it's not as bad a it was a couple years ago. It's all part of the game

[DoubleD]

It is borderline irresponsible to NOT have a mapping GPS on Erie. Old school hand helds take you in a straight line from A. to B. There could be a shallow reef between where you are and where you want to go.

[bocajemma]

I have to absolutely agree with everyone regarding a chart plotter. A mapping GPS, although not 100% required, does increase safety 10 fold over a standard GPS. My first year with my "new to me boat" I got by with just the GPS/sonar unit that was already installed on the boat. After nearly tearing my rudder off, and nearly getting stuck on a sand bar going into west harbor, I decided the GPS chart plotter was a wise investment. Although you can see chanel markers ahead of you might not actually be in that channel. this holds true for around the islands. The channel markers around ballast island can be quite confusing without the chart plotter.

[eyeassassin]

guess i will have to save up for one of them i have been looking at the prices online. thanks for the advice

[wakina]

I have to absolutely agree with everyone regarding a chart plotter. A mapping GPS, although not 100% required, does increase safety 10 fold over a standard GPS. My first year with my "new to me boat" I got by with just the GPS/sonar unit that was already installed on the boat. After nearly tearing my rudder off, and nearly getting stuck on a sand bar going into west harbor, I decided the GPS chart plotter was a wise investment. Although you can see chanel markers ahead of you might not actually be in that channel. this holds true for around the islands. The channel markers around ballast island can be quite confusing without the chart plotter.

Excellent post bocajemma! The same can be said about Lucy's Point, Gull Island Shoal, Kelly's Shoal, Sunrise Point, Short Reef and Crib Reef as they all have a dangerous spot or two that will eat your outdrive or worse. A GPS with a Hot Maps card makes for much safer boating in those areas.